A concert by the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra kicked off the holiday season of shows at the Tilles Center in Greenvale Sunday, Dec. 4. The Christmas-themed performance featured special guests, Rockapella.

Under the direction of Keith Lockhart – and accompanied by Soprano sololist, Kathryn Skemp Moran – the Pops performed a beautifully-crafted show that could put any audience into the holiday spirit.

Parts of the show that stood out were “A Visit from Saint Nicholas (‘Twas the Night Before Christmas), where Lockhart read aloud the original text of the famed poem by Clement C. Moore, and Rockapella’s rendition of “Santa Claus is Coming to Town.”

The audience was also prompted to participate in “A Merry Little Sing-Along," and were asked to sing five Christmas songs with the Pops, Lockhart, Moran and Rockapella.

“My favorite part of this show is the sing-along,” said Lockhart. “Getting the audience involved and seeing smiles on their faces is the best.”

The Pops have been performing for more than 125 years, and include artists - both established and rising stars - from virtually every corner of the world, according to Wikipedia. Lockhart is currently in his seventeenth season conducting the orchestra.

Alongside the Pops, Rockapella members Scott Leonard, Jeff Thacher, George Baldi, John K. Brown and Steve Dorian lit up the stage with vocals that truly made the show ‘pop’ with style and pizzazz.

It was hard to believe such full, band-like sounds were coming from only five individuals with microphones, and no instruments; it was vivid and exciting.

Rockapella’s talent was highlighted in their wide range of sound, which hinted of vintage Mills Brothers, jazz, rock and current hip-hop. For those seeking an exciting, live vocal performance, this high-energy group will satisfy your appetite.

Pops bassist Susan Hagen shared her sentiments about Rockapella’s collaboration for the seasonal concert:

“It really warms my heart to do all of these Christmas songs with them,” she said.

For more about the Boston Pops Orchestra, visit their Web site. To see an upcoming Rockapella show, click here. For a schedule of more holiday performances at the Tilles Center, call 516-299-3100 or visit their Web site.